SPEARFISH, S.D. – The Adams State men's basketball team put together an explosive offensive performance but ultimately fell short in a high-scoring 100-93 battle against Black Hills State on Thursday night.
Despite trailing by 10 at halftime, the Grizzlies (12-15, 7-12 RMAC) mounted a strong second-half push, scoring 52 points after the break, but the Yellow Jackets' sharp three-point shooting proved to be the difference in the contest. Black Hills State (16-11, 12-7 RMAC) drained 18 triples on the night, including a perfect 7-for-7 effort from Cam Lowe, who led all scorers with 23 points.
Adams State saw five players score in double figures, led by Ta'Veus Randle and Jude Tapia, who each tallied 19 points. Randle was efficient from the field, hitting 5-of-11 shots, including a pair of three-pointers, and was nearly perfect at the free-throw line (7-for-8). Tapia orchestrated the offense, adding five assists to go along with his 19 points, shooting 6-of-14 from the floor.
After a slow start that saw Black Hills State build a double-digit lead in the first half, the Grizzlies came out of the locker room with renewed energy. Adams State cut into the deficit with a strong transition attack, scoring 21 fast-break points while also outscoring the Yellow Jackets 38-28 in the paint.
However, the Grizzlies struggled to contain Black Hills State's perimeter shooting, as the Yellow Jackets shot 60% (18-for-30) from three-point range. Every time Adams State appeared to be gaining momentum, BHSU responded with a timely triple to keep the lead intact.
Despite the loss, Adams State showcased its offensive depth, getting 32 points from its bench and committing only six turnovers, their lowest mark in RMAC play this season.
Adams State will be back in action on Saturday, when they travel to Chadron State for their final game of regular season play.